I visited the UK's best seaside town - just 20 minutes from city
Edinburgh is my favourite place anywhere in the world, but it's hard to ignore that during the summer months, the city can feel a bit too bustling and loud due to the International Festival. The array of performers, shows, and comedians can be entertaining, but if you're seeking a break from the hubbub, consider venturing to its stunning seaside.
Many Edinburgh visitors are oblivious to the fact that just on the city's outskirts lies Portobello, a quaint, historic coastal town that's part of the city. I'm absolutely smitten with Portobello for its awe-inspiring beach and unique independent shops, so I highly recommend it for anyone in search of a peaceful retreat from the chaotic city centre.
Portobello beach is renowned for its incredibly soft white sand, making it an ideal location for a picnic or simply unwinding with a good book by the sea. The best thing about it is how tranquil it is - as long as you don't go at the weekend.
From treasure hunts to photographers, yoga sessions or even beach clean-ups, the community is really active, creating a very close-knit and cosy atmosphere, reports the Express. It also boasts some stunning, gothic-style Victorian homes along the promenade, and there's a plethora of charming little cafés and restaurants to explore.
My absolute favourite dining spot at the beach is The Boathouse. It serves the most delicious pizzas I've ever tasted and is situated at the very end of the promenade, so it tends to be quiet.
However, Portobello is brimming with fantastic eateries, making it a must-visit for those seeking a quality dining experience without the city centre price tag. My absolute favourite pastime is to pop in for lunch at Greek Artisan Pastries, an adorable blue-and-white bakery that stands out on the main street. Their savoury pies are always a delight, served warm and fresh with such a wide variety that I'm always spoilt for choice.
Tanifiki, one of the friendliest coffee shops I've ever visited, is renowned for its African coffee blends. The owner is a gem, but the entire team are consistently pleasant and incredibly helpful every time I drop by.
With an array of sweet baked goods and luxurious coffee on offer, Tanifiki is a place I simply can't resist. On my last visit, I indulged in a sea salt brownie, but their scones are also a personal favourite and come highly recommended.
For a tipple, head over to the Foresters, which boasts a cosy beer garden and scrumptious pub grub. Their fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding are the best I've ever had, warranting a visit every few months just to relive the experience.
Edinburgh is famed for its vast array of bookshops, but if you're a bibliophile, The Portobello Bookshop is a must-visit. This independent bookstore offers some of the best picks hand-selected by staff members, ensuring I always discover something unique to read when I stop by. They also boast a fantastic range of independent books and magazines, sparking interest in subjects you may never have considered before.
Portobello is an extraordinary location brimming with independent shops that are worth a visit, and I've barely begun to uncover the hidden gems of this underappreciated coastal town.
Portobello is just a 20-minute car journey from Edinburgh city centre, or approximately a 35-minute bus ride. It's about an hour's walk, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, it's advisable to take public transport or a taxi.
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